Whereas, A congenital diaphragmatic hernia is an opening in the diaphragm that allows the abdominal organs to push into the chest cavity; and,

Whereas, A congenital diaphragmatic hernia is often a life-threatening birth defect, because it limits the growth of the lungs; and,

Whereas, A congenital diaphragmatic hernia occurs in 1 of every 2,000 live births in the United States; and,

Whereas, Congenital diaphragmatic hernias account for 8 percent of all major congenital anomalies; and,

Whereas, Proactive diagnosis and appropriate management of fetuses with congenital diaphragmatic hernias minimizes the incidence of emergency situations, dramatically improving survival rates; and,

Whereas, Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Awareness Day provides an opportunity for families whose lives have been affected by the disease to celebrate life and to remember loved ones lost, to honor dedicated health professionals, and to meet others afflicted with the disorder and know they are not alone; and,

Whereas, Groups such as Breath of Hope, Inc. are working to promote public awareness and encourage research efforts to one day prevent or successfully treat all those diagnosed with a congenital diaphragmatic hernia; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim March 31, 2008, as Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Awareness Day in Michigan.